What Comes after Seminary?

Seminary graduation isn’t the end of your religious studies. Something wonderful is still in store for you.

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In seminary you study the scriptures and probably meet with others your age regularly. You feel welcome, and you can feel the Spirit. So when you’ve completed seminary, are these experiences over? Absolutely not.

The Church’s institute program is the next step, and you’ll love it. Whether you’re going to college or not, you can continue to learn about the gospel, prepare for a mission and temple marriage, and share experiences with others your age.

Here are some answers to basic questions about institute. You can find out more at institute.lds.org.

What is institute?

Institute consists of gospel study classes, including classes on the scriptures, teachings of the prophets, and preparation for a mission or temple marriage. In some institutes you can choose from multiple classes.

Who can attend?

All young single adults are strongly encouraged to attend institute classes. Anyone—married or single—between the ages of 18 and 30 can attend.

Where can I find institute?

Some areas have institute buildings near colleges and universities. In other areas classes are held in Church buildings or other locations. Contact your bishop or branch president to learn about the institute program in your area, or go to institute.lds.org to find an institute near you.

Why should I take institute classes?

President Thomas S. Monson has said: “Make participation in institute a priority. … Think of it. Friends will be made, the Spirit will be felt, and faith will be strengthened. I promise you that as you participate in institute and study the scriptures diligently, your power to avoid temptation and to receive direction of the Holy Ghost in all you do will be increased” (institute.lds.org, Apr. 21, 2009).

Facts about Institute

Number of students: over 350,000

Number of locations:over 2,500

Number of courses available: 15 basic courses, plus several other custom courses

First institute: Moscow, Idaho, USA (1926)

First institute outside the U.S. and Canada: Mexico (1959)

Purpose of institute: To help young adults understand and rely on the teachings and Atonement of Jesus Christ, qualify for the blessings of the temple, and prepare themselves, their families, and others for eternal life with their Father in Heaven.